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Curried Chicken Salad with Apples

Updated:

12/22/2024

Sweet apples, crunchy celery, and juicy chicken breasts combine with warm curry powder and creamy yogurt in this delicious and healthy curried chicken salad.

Liz grabbing a lettuce wrap with curried chicken salad with apples

Table of Contents

Chicken salad is a classic recipe that brings back many childhood memories of my beloved Miracle Whip. It was a sad day when I discovered the main ingredient was corn syrup so I try to use it sparingly, if at all. The good news is that plain yogurt has come to the rescue.

Before you shun me, let me give you a few tips for replacing mayo or sour cream with plain yogurt. It is important to replace the fat with additional flavor. Since much of what we love about mayo and sour cream is the rich, decadent mouthfeel that comes from the fat it is important to make up for it with natural flavor enhancers.

squeezing lemon into curry chicken salad

If you’re making tuna salad, add in freshly chopped herbs such as basil or dill. Making tacos? Add a little lime zest and fresh lime juice to sour cream before serving.

When it comes to chicken salad, I love adding antioxidant-packed curry powder and a splash of fresh lemon juice. For added sweetness (to make up for the missing corn syrup), I add chopped apples. Red grapes work well too!

How to make Curried Chicken Salad with Apples

You can start with a whole rotisserie chicken, cooked chicken breasts, or pre-cubed or shredded canned chicken from the grocery store. I tend to have rotisserie chickens on hand for times such as these. Shred it up to the size you prefer.

Mix together the sauce ingredients before adding in the chicken. Stir to fully combine. Feel free to add extra lemon juice if needed.

Chop the celery and apples finely before adding them to the chicken mixture. You can even throw in some red onions, I won’t tell.

Once all the ingredients are mixed together you can serve immediately or chill in the fridge for a half hour or so. You can also store in the fridge for a few days and dish out for lunches during the week. Just don’t be surprised if it doesn’t last that long!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to serve curried chicken salad in lettuce wraps?

No, you can use tortillas, bread, toast, crackers, or even eat by itself! Just account for the extra calories and carbs.

What if I don’t have apples or celery?

I think the apples add sweetness and the celery some crunch, but you can substitute either with whatever you have. Red grapes or raisins work well to replace apples. And anything crunchy like onions could replace celery.

Is curry spicy?

Curry doesn’t have to be spicy or hot. It’s a blend of different savory and sweet spices, and the level of heat will depend on the type and amount of pepper used. Most curry found in the regular spice aisle in the grocery store is not spicy.

Should I serve curried chicken salad cold?

You can eat it cold or room temperature, but if serving over lettuce I recommend keeping it cold so it doesn’t wilt.

What side dishes go with curried chicken salad?

Whether you serve on lettuce wraps or a sandwich, this curried chicken salad goes great with Baked Turnip Chips, Fried Pickle Chips, or Vegan Roasted Tomato Soup.

How long does chicken salad last in the refrigerator?

Chicken salad should be stored in an air tight container and can last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Of course, I’m not perfect and I’m yet to discover a perfect egg and ham sandwich without Miracle Whip. Maybe one day… ;-)

posing for a camera eating curried chicken salad with apples

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Hi, I’m Liz!

Hey there, I’m Liz Della Croce and I’m thrilled to have you here! My aim is to motivate and ignite your passion for cooking amazing meals for your loved ones. I believe in the power of real, wholesome ingredients that are bursting with flavor and won’t break the bank. Whether it’s a traditional Lebanese recipe from my family or a culinary creation from across the globe, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover that nutritious food can be exciting, affordable, and easy to prepare.

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4.72 from 7 votes (4 ratings without comment)

48 responses to “Curried Chicken Salad with Apples”

Jenifer Mattock

Made this today and it was so good. Quick, easy, and perfect for a no-cook dinner on a hot summer night. I added some slivered almonds and craisins and used a bit more yogurt. My husband didn’t think he would like chicken salad that didn’t have mayonnaise, but we’re watching our fats so the yogurt seemed more sensible. He said he didn’t miss the the mayonnaise and ate two helpings.

Reply
1. Liz DellaCroce
  
  So glad you and your husband enjoyed it, and I love the addition of craisins, I’ll have to try that!
  
  Reply
Marsha Nikora

I have made curried chicken salad most of my life by the seat of my pants (starting in the pre-Internet days ????) and for the most part it was successful. However, after using this recipe from Liz, I must say my curried chicken salad went from being good to being spectacular! This is the perfect balance of chicken, crunch, sweetness & curry; using yogurt was an added health benefit without sacrificing taste. This has to be best curried chicken salad ever! Thank you, Liz.

Reply
1. Liz DellaCroce
  
  Oh my goodness thank you so much Marsha! So glad you enjoyed this!!!!!
  
  Reply
Mariam

Yum!! Can I use Greek yougurt? May try this this week for lunch!

Reply
1. Liz DellaCroce
  
  Yes Greek yogurt would work fine!
  
  Reply